Yassine Zabiri Aims for Key Role with Morocco in Africa Cup of Nations

Yassine Zabiri is done waiting in the wings.

The Racing Santander striker has made it clear he wants a bigger role with Morocco, convinced he can lead the Atlas Lions’ attack as the Africa Cup of Nations looms into view.

Speaking to DAZN, Zabiri did not dodge the question when asked if he could spearhead the national team’s frontline. He stepped straight into it.

"Yes, I think so. I work all year round, and I hope we continue in this manner," he said. "We will keep working so that the team earns the coach's trust, as he is the one who makes the decisions."

No bravado. Just a forward who believes his club form can carry over to the international stage, and who understands that Mohamed Ouahbi’s trust must be earned, not assumed.

For Zabiri, the Morocco shirt is not just another jersey in the wardrobe. It is the culmination of a childhood dream, shared across an entire household.

"It is an honour for me and for my whole family, as this was a dream I had since my childhood," he explained. "Now we are enjoying these moments, and after that we will see what happens."

Those “moments” are starting to come faster. A place in the national setup. A growing reputation in Spain. A rising sense that this could be his time.

His ambition for the Africa Cup of Nations is as bold as his belief. Zabiri is not talking about participation. He is talking about contention.

"God willing, we will go to the Africa Cup of Nations and reach as far as possible. I hope we are crowned with the title," he said.

That is the bar he is setting: not just a good run, but a trophy.

All of this arrives in a decisive week for his club career as well. Racing Santander are preparing to host Real Madrid on Sunday in the 11th round of La Liga, a stage where every touch is judged and every performance lingers in the memory.

For a young striker chasing a bigger role with Morocco, there could hardly be a better audition.